An internal AT&T memo obtained by AppleInsider, and a similar internal Rogers memo posted on a Canadian iPhone forum, describe a special version of iTunes that will be used for the in-store “unbricking” process required to let customers use the iPhone 3G. The AT&T memo shows an icon for “iTunes (Activation Only Mode),” noting that “[t]his icon is for the itunes utility that will be used for unbricking iPhone 3G devices during the activation process.” It goes on to note that the icon will be needed for the iPhone 3G launch on July 11, and that it is “not a full version of iTunes and is for use in activations ONLY.” The Rogers memo defines the unbricking process as “enabling the phone for services,” and reveals that the “Activation Only” version of iTunes is labeled as 7.6.3b4. Interestingly, a download link is provided in the leaked memo, but the page specifies that the maximum number of downloads has been reached.
Charles Starrett was a senior editor at iLounge. He's been covering the iPod, iPhone, and iPad since their inception. He has written numerous articles and reviews, and his work has been featured in multiple publications.